Poplar Avenue

Endometriosis Clinic in Memphis, TN

Best Endometriosis Treatment Clinic in Memphis, TN

If you have endometriosis, you’re not alone. According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, Endometriosis affects about 1 out of every 10 women worldwide. At Poplar Avenue Clinic, the team of board-certified OB/GYNs can diagnose and treat your endometriosis with personalized, patient-centered treatment plans that can help you find relief. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call their office in Memphis, Tennessee, or book an appointment online today.

Endometriosis Q & A

What is endometriosis?

The lining of your uterus, which thickens during your menstrual cycle and is then sloughed off during your monthly period, is called the endometrium. Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus. This abnormal tissue thickens along with your normal endometrium during your cycle, and it also bleeds when you have your period, potentially causing damage and complications in the affected area of your body.

 

Most of the time, endometriosis is found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the internal structures of the pelvic region. Endometriosis can also occur on the bladder, intestines, appendix, or rectum. It’s possible for endometrial tissue to grow outside of the abdominal cavity, but these cases are extremely rare.

What causes endometriosis?

The exact cause of endometriosis isn’t yet known, but it may be caused by a condition called “retrograde menstruation,” in which menstrual blood backs up into the fallopian tubes and spills out into the pelvic cavity. If you’ve never been pregnant or given birth, or there is a history of endometriosis in your family, you may have an increased risk for developing endometriosis.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Common symptoms associated with endometriosis include:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Abnormal bleeding
  • Severe menstrual cramps
  • Painful intercourse
  • Painful urination
  • Bowel or urinary dysfunction
  • Chronic fatigue

Endometriosis may cause difficulty conceiving, but treating endometriosis can restore fertility in some cases.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Endometriosis can be challenging to diagnose because symptoms like heavy periods, severe cramps, or pelvic pain can be present in many gynecologic conditions. Fortunately, the team at Poplar Avenue Clinic has the expertise to diagnose endometriosis accurately.

To diagnose endometriosis, your doctor completes a pelvic exam and carefully reviews your symptoms and health history. They may also order additional tests, including an ultrasound or a pelvic MRI, or may recommend a tissue biopsy to rule out all other possible causes for your symptoms.

How is endometriosis treated?

Once you’ve received a diagnosis of endometriosis, your doctor at Poplar Avenue Clinic will create a care plan based on factors like the severity of your endometriosis, your personal health history, and your reproductive status and goals.

Possible options to manage endometriosis include:

  • Hormone therapy
  • Prescription medications
  • Minimally invasive surgery
  • Hysterectomy

To learn more about treatment options for endometriosis, call Poplar Avenue Clinic today, or book an appointment online.